Mental Health Awareness Week starts today, and this year’s theme is “community,” encouraging people to create a safe space at home, work or school in which they can be open and honest about how they are feeling.
Many people struggle with their mental health, and it can be especially challenging when someone is living with a terminal illness. They may experience feelings of anxiety, stress, and fear, or seem low in mood. Talking about it can help them find the right support, and is another step towards breaking the taboo around mental health, but starting the conversation can sometimes feel difficult.
Ask them how they’re feeling
If you notice that someone has been going through something difficult, don’t hesitate to ask them how they’re feeling- this is a good way to open up the conversation without too much pressure. It shows that you care about them, and lets them know that you’re there to listen and offer support if needed. Be careful not to push them into speaking about anything they find uncomfortable, and instead reassure them that you’ll be there whenever they’re ready.
Offer practical help
Many of our volunteers help out with practical things, such as making the bed, grocery shopping, and driving clients to appointments. Small acts like these can help someone struggling with their mental health by making the day seem a little bit more manageable. Making someone a light lunch or offering to take their dog for a short walk when they aren’t feeling up for it themselves can make a bigger impact than you might realise.
Keep an open mind
When talking to someone about their mental health, make sure to keep an open mind and try not to judge them. Opening up can be hard for some people, and making negative comments or telling someone to “pull yourself together” can make them feel even more isolated. Ask open-ended questions starting with “how, what, when,” and “where,” as this encourages reflection and honesty.
Make sure to look after yourself
Hearing that someone is going through a hard time, especially someone close to you, can be upsetting. You might struggle to find them the help they need, and this might leave you feeling disappointed in yourself, but please remember that it is okay not to have all the answers- sometimes just being there to listen is enough. Make sure to take care of your own mental health while supporting others, through setting boundaries or having someone else to speak to such as a friend or family member. If you’re a Brigitte Trust volunteer, you can get support from your Volunteer Manager, or through one of our Volunteer Support Groups.
You might worry that you’ll say the wrong thing, but sometimes just telling someone that you’re there for them can make a big impact. Assuring them that they don’t have to deal with it alone can really help, and breaks down the barriers that we put up.